What is an unmanaged POE switch? What scenarios are suitable for?

Among modern network devices, POE (Power over Ethernet) switches are becoming more and more popular. They transmit power and data simultaneously through a network cable, simplifying wiring and saving costs. POE switches are divided into “managed type” and “unmanaged type”. Among them, “unmanaged POE switches” are ideal for small and medium-sized enterprises, security monitoring, home networks and other scenarios because of their plug-and-play and easy operation.

What is an unmanaged POE switch?
As the name suggests, an unmanaged POE switch is a switch product that does not require complex settings. It does not have advanced network management functions such as remote configuration, VLAN division, bandwidth control, etc., and it can work automatically after installation.

At the same time, POE technology allows it to power compatible devices, such as:

IP ​​Camera

Wireless Access Point (AP)

VOIP Phone

Small IoT Devices, etc.

Advantages of Unmanaged POE Switches

Plug and Play
No configuration is required, just connect the network cable and power supply to operate normally, which greatly reduces the technical threshold.

Easy installation, saves wiring
One network cable transmits data and power at the same time, avoiding cumbersome power wiring, especially suitable for ceiling-mounted cameras and APs.

Stable and reliable, cost-effective
Non-managed devices have simple structures, stable hardware, and prices are usually more advantageous than managed types.

Suitable for small or fixed network topologies
If your network is small and the topology is not complex, non-managed POE switches can do the job.

Common application scenarios
Monitoring system wiring
Communities, office buildings, and store monitoring systems install a large number of IP cameras, and POE switches can power them and transmit signals.

Wireless network coverage
Arrange multiple POE wireless APs in the office area and use non-managed POE switches for centralized power supply.

Home smart network
Smart cameras, voice control centers and other devices do not require additional power and are flexible to install.

How to buy?
When purchasing, you can pay attention to the following parameters:

Number of ports: Common ones are 4 ports, 8 ports, 16 ports, etc.

Power supply: Select the appropriate total power supply according to the power consumption of the connected device

Whether it has an uplink port: used to connect to the upper-level switch or router

Whether it supports IEEE802.3af/at standards: ensure the compatibility of POE power supply

Summary
Although the functions of non-managed POE switches are not as rich as those of managed ones, they play an important role in many small projects due to their ease of use, reliability and high cost performance. If you do not need complex network management functions and want to simplify the installation process and reduce wiring costs, then non-managed POE switches are undoubtedly a solution worth considering.